WORK has begun on a £10.7million project to build an assisted living complex on the site of the former Harwich hospital.

On Tuesday, the first spade went in the ground at the Main Road plot, which has been controversial for being left overgrown and unused since the hospital was demolished in 2006.

Branded as an eyesore wasteland, the site is set to be transformed into a complex with 58 stylish self-contained flats over three floors, as well as communal facilities including a residents’ lounge, restaurant, spa and private courtyard garden.

The apartments are aimed and giving older people the opportunity to live independently with the security of care and support from One Housing who will manage the site.

There will also be 12 self-contained apartments specifically for adults with learning difficulties.

The project, supported by grant funding from Essex County Council, is set to be completed by the end of 2016.

Councillor Malcolm Maddocks, Essex County Council’s deputy cabinet member for adults and children, said: “Essex has an ageing population and it is important the infrastructure is in place to meet people’s changing needs.

“We are committed to helping residents maintain their independence and facilities such as this play a vital role in ensuring we can continue to do that.”